Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Aluminum Explorer Tripod Legs w/Tilting Center Column (Height 11-64", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

The independent center column is great for some shots, but after just under 2 years of almost zero usage:

one of the twist locks has failed completely. It has only had a light wide angle zoom lens and slr body mounted on it with one of Gitzo's offset ballheads.

Rubber pads that are glued underneath leg lock levers to dampen the impact have all fallen off.

Hopefull the defective leg lock will be under their superb lifetime warranty, but I was still somewhat surprised considering the brand, and I felt it's only fair to post my experience to others considering this particular model. Under 2 years is not a long time for a high quality tripod to have multiple defects IMO.

I put no I would not recommend, but I would still recommend Gitzo's more expensive tripods.

Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Aluminum Explorer Tripod Legs w/Tilting Center Column (Height 11-64", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

It's a solidly build product. A little heavier then I thought, but can be used to put a camera at angles that other tripods may not be able to with its swivel shaft design.

Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Aluminum Explorer Tripod Legs w/Tilting Center Column (Height 11-64", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

First really serious tripod I've owned. Very flexibel. Does however take some getting used to.
Would also benefit from better markings on legs angle of spread.
All in all verg good for nature and macro shooting

Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Aluminum Explorer Tripod Legs w/Tilting Center Column (Height 11-64", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

Advanced amateur. I've used it extensively in difficult situations for macro and closeup work. The tilting center column gives you a setup for nearly any shot.

Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Aluminum Explorer Tripod Legs w/Tilting Center Column (Height 11-64", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

Great high quality product. Great for macro photography where you have to deal with closeups and all kind of angles. [...]